Expose The Posers

So, you've decided to dabble in the dark side, huh? Maybe you’ve got a sick tattoo, a pentagram pendant that catches the light just right, and a black lipstick that's more goth than your entire aura. But beware, because Satanists aren’t thrilled with fake followers. Period.

In the sacred halls of the Church of Satan, which, by the way, isn’t about ritual sacrifices or fiery hell pits (no one’s actually that into fire and brimstone), true Satanists don’t like people who just slap on the devil’s gear for a little attention. They want real commitment, not someone who’s playing dress-up to get some edgy Instagram likes.

According to Vice, Satanism is far more intellectual than you think. It’s not just about saying “Hail Satan!” and flashing a horns—no, no. It’s about philosophy, individualism, and embracing a life based on reason, questioning authority, and a solid “nah, thanks” to blindly following religious dogma. So, when people try to wear the dark cloak of Satanism as a way to be “cool” or “controversial,” Satanists are quick to roll their eyes and mutter, “Why don't you go back to posting about your oat milk latte?”

Satanism is a belief system with a rich, complex history that dates back to before LaVey. It's often misunderstood by both outsiders and those who claim to follow it! One of the most frustrating aspects for true Satanists is how frequently their philosophy is overshadowed by phony individuals looking for likes or to go viral. In the world of occultism, drama has just about peaked to a head with regard to these fake ass posers. Unfortunately, the public has grouped us all as into a whole sect. From the outside looking in were viewed as weirdos who partake in sacrificial traditions and what not. Like come on now you're giving real ones a bum rap! It would be wise to disassociate yourself from those who kill in the name of worship. ESPECIALLY innocent and helpless animals. Persons who commit such acts aren't satanists. These "people" are vermin in need of extermination. To boot, they deem themselves Satanist that worship an actual devil deity. Those are deplorable persons far disconnected from society i.e., crazy folk! So, steer clear.

True practitioners of the occult are finally speaking out against these phony satanists condemning their blatant disregard for the sacred traditions and symbolism that hold deep meaning for many. Real occultists are quick to point out that true power lies in understanding knowledge and not spewing memorized excerpts. Emo types have many real occultists shaking their heads in disgust because they've been making noise with their over-the-top theatrics and attempts at sensationalism. Whether it's self-proclaimed "Satanic" influencers or those who lean into the most extreme, sensational aspects of the religion for clicks, the public perception of Satanism is often far removed from its true roots.

In an interview with Vice, Jennifer Crepuscolo, a founder of the Unione Satanisti Italiani, highlighted how Satanism is split into two main branches: one that believes in Satan as a deity and another that views Satan as a symbol of rebellion. The true Satanists, like Crepuscolo, see the practice as a path to knowledge, freedom, and personal growth—rejecting dogma in favor of individual understanding. Yet, these nuanced perspectives often get drowned out by loud, attention-seeking figures who equate Satanism with shock tactics, occult theatrics, and media manipulation. True and very well conveyed for the younger, more impressionable crowd. These are facts long known by seasoned (real) Satanists - i.e., those of us who have truly read and continue to do so.

One of the most significant issues is the gullibility of audiences. As is often the case with any subculture, the loudest voices are not always the most informed or thoughtful. This phenomenon can be partly attributed to human nature—people tend to follow charismatic figures or those who offer an exciting, rebellious identity that feels countercultural. Unfortunately, these figures may push completely fabricated versions of Satanism that perpetuate stereotypes of devil worship and maleficence. We put emphasis on the occultist lifestyle, as it was meant to be. Unlocking plain truths from this mundane, dumbed-down world, all while respecting ancient rules and rights. And it doesn't matter how you got there; as long as you went through the motions, then you've earned your stripes in the eyes of any Satanist.

Don’t believe me? Just look at the stories from actual Satanists. One found their “inner devil” after realizing they’d been putting up with family holidays for way too long. Another had a revelation after their goth phase evolved into a full-blown self-actualization moment. (These aren’t the kinds of people who casually throw on black and call it a day.) You can't fake that kind of journey. Satanists who’ve been walking the walk aren't impressed with a half-hearted "I'll just wear this satanic tee for fun" attitude.

The Church of Satan’s official guidelines, which you can read up on History Collection, make it clear: there’s no room for “wannabes.” Satanism, in its truest form, is about self-determination and rejecting societal pressures. It's about defying conventions, not hopping on the latest trend because you saw it in a meme. So, the next time you’re about to Instagram a photo of yourself under a black-and-red filter with the hashtag #HailSatan, remember—true Occultists are scoffing.

Substantial satanism isn’t about being edgy for the sake of it. If you're going to adopt the dark mantle, you'd better have more than just an appreciation for leather jackets and long nights spent staring at your reflection in the moonlight. You’d better have a real, passionate reason for the rebellion you claim to embrace.

Substantial satanism isn’t about being edgy for the sake of it. If you're going to adopt the dark mantle, you'd better have more than just an appreciation for leather jackets and long nights spent staring at your reflection in the moonlight. You’d better have a real, passionate reason for the rebellion you claim to embrace.

But the question arises: why aren’t real Satanists calling out these impostors? The answers lie in a combination of factors. One reason is the desire to keep the REAL practice private. For many REAL Satanists, there is a resistance to using social media platforms to engage in public battles over what constitutes “true” Satanism. In some cases, this might also be a deliberate effort to distance themselves from media sensationalism or to avoid giving fuel to the fire that would allow mainstream culture to paint the movement as dangerous.

Additionally, in many parts of the world, Satanism is still seen as taboo or even dangerous. Many true Satanists prefer to stay out of the limelight, especially when they may face backlash, discrimination, or even threats of violence. This is particularly true for those practicing "theistic Satanism," which may be viewed as heretical by certain religious communities. They may not want to publicly associate themselves with individuals who give the movement a bad name.

While it's frustrating to see misleading portrayals of Satanism spread online, it's clear that those who are deeply invested in authentic Satanic philosophies are often reluctant to confront these figures directly. Instead, they prefer to quietly focus on their own practices, recognizing that many of the loudest voices on social media are simply chasing fame, not truth; and in communities built on wisdom and reverence, the antics of these fucktards are seen as not only disrespectable, but ultimately futile in the pursuit of true enlightenment. They're just buffoons trying to look scary for the meantime. And wasting everyone's time while there at it. I refuse to waste another moment even thinking about them.

In summary: Satanists don't want you to just “be evil” on the outside. They want you to feel it. They’re not here for people who think they can just throw on a hoodie with a goat head and call it a religion. For Satanists, it's about authenticity, personal empowerment, and breaking down the walls of what society expects. So, if you're just in it for the aesthetic... well, prepare for some serious side-eye from those who actually live out the fundamentals, the tenets, and all in the upmost truest, philosophical sense.

References and sources:
https://historycollection.com/40-facts-about-the-church-of-satan/
https://www.vice.com/en/article/why-satanists-believe-in-satan-interview/
https://www.ranker.com/list/satanist-revelation-stories/stefanie-hammond
https://historycollection.com/40-facts-about-the-church-of-satan/
https://www.britannica.com/topic/occultism
https://www.gothpersona.com/darkness-made-visible-the-meaning-behind-goth-symbols